School holidays on track
Friday 19 July, 2019
Photos: Lauren Cornes and Chantel Collins
Another two editions of Ricciardo’s Racers have taken place over the most recent school holidays, with Victoria and Western Australia the latest states to hold the popular driver development program.
Hosted at Sandown and Barbagallo, both events were sold out as teenagers aged 12-17 got a chance to get some valuable experience behind the wheel.
Both events offered the aspiring drivers ‘Level One and Two’ courses as instructor Elliot Barbour was joined by three-time CAMS Australian Rally Champion Cody Crocker for Victoria’s course, while Karl Reindler guided the eager students in Western Australia with the assistance of BD Soutar-Dawson.
A number of students took advantage of the two separate courses to get the most out of their track day, including 16-year old Kloe West who posted the third fastest time of the day in Western Australia.
“We’ve learnt new things such as how to control your car when braking and cornering. It’s been a really good experience,” Kloe said.
“I really enjoyed the motorkhana activity where we put together all the things we have learnt.
“Ricciardo’s Racers is actually quite fun and I’d like to do more motor sport. I feel like I understand driving a bit more.”
Kloe’s 14-year-old brother Aaron was also thrilled to take part in Ricciardo’s Racers, in what was his first ever experience driving a car .
“My favourite part was learning new things and having a great time. It’s been a great experience. I really recommend it – you’ll enjoy the whole day,” Aaron added.
“The instructors have been great. They are really encouraging – always telling us that we are doing really good, even when we feel like we aren’t.
“It’s been a fantastic day – I loved it. Will definitely be back again.”
Ricciardo’s Racers returns to Victoria for the first of two advanced ‘Level Three’ courses, with Winton Raceway hosting the event on 31 August.
